What is missing here?
When changing the air filter, I noticed this
area (circular with the t or cross in the
center). It appears to have cooliant beneath
it. Does a cap go here? I believe t may have
popped of when I was driving it. Help!
Here is another picture to put it in perspective
I am not familiar with that exact model VW but I'm pretty sure we are looking at the cooling system and that's coolant leaking out. If you can safely drive it to an auto parts store, they may be able to identify what's missing there. I think I can see threads on that piece, meaning something came unthreaded and blew away. Broken or threaded, it needs replaces to contain the coolant. It's good that you are taking care of it immediately. Tells us what you find.
I did a parts search. What's missing is a plastic plug, an "O" ring, and a locking cross clip. No threaded parts. Ask for URO part #357121140. Or VW original part #357198140 or #9001072 and it is like a $2 part...three pieces, installs by hand. I'm pretty sure that's what's missing. Top up your coolant when done. Tell us what you find.
